Periodontal Therapy in Hamilton, NJ

Tooth Scaling & Root Planing

Tooth scaling and root planing is a specific type of periodontal therapy that we may recommend depending on your situation. During tooth scaling, an instrument called a scaler is used to remove dental plaque and dental calculus from beneath the teeth and gums. Since this plaque is filled with bacteria, it must be removed to prevent further gum disease.

Once the dental plaque and dental calculus have been removed, the area that has been scraped leaves a jagged appearance. Dental planing, also called root planing, is the procedure used to smooth the tooth’s root. Planing helps your gums heal, as it’s easier for gums to reattach themselves to a smoother root than one still suffering from the results of gum disease. The smooth surface also helps keep dental plaque from attacking the tooth’s root, making it easier to maintain the gums following dental treatment. However, these periodontal treatments aren’t ideal for every situation. We will assess your oral health to determine if scaling and root planing will help cure gum disease in your specific circumstance, or if we recommend other surgical treatments.

Gum Tissue Grafting

Soft tissue grafting is one of our most involved types of periodontal therapy in Hamilton, NJ. Over time, gums can recess and expose areas near the tooth root, creating what are commonly known as “gum pockets.” These pockets not only affect the appearance of your smile and can cause loose teeth, but can also worsen the progression of gum disease. Exposed roots make your teeth more vulnerable to bacteria and plaque buildup, as well as cause issues including tooth sensitivity and an uneven gum line. For excessive gum recession, our dentists may recommend gum grafts or similar surgical treatments. During gum grafting, we utilize soft tissue grafts from your own mouth to halt the spread of gum disease. This type of gum disease treatment allows our dentists to restore an even gum line, repair damage to connective tissue, and shield more of the tooth to prevent further issues.

Gum Lift

While not a form of treatment for gum disease, a gum lift is another type of periodontal therapy in Hamilton, NJ, that we offer. This cosmetic procedure, also sometimes called “gum flap” surgery, allows our doctors to remove excess gum tissue, revealing more teeth in a smile. If a patient’s smile is excessively “gummy”, the procedure may be beneficial. However, it’s essential that you have a healthy bone and tooth structure for gum flap surgery to be successful. We will let you know if this option is available for you!

How is gum disease diagnosed?

The condition is diagnosed by your dentist during a routine examination. This includes checking your teeth and gums for inflammation, measuring the depth of periodontal pockets around your teeth using a periodontal probe, and taking X-rays to check for bone loss.

Can gum disease be reversed?

We can treat periodontal disease in its early stages with proper oral hygiene and professional dental cleanings. However, the more advanced stage of gum disease (advanced periodontitis) can’t be reversed, although it can be managed effectively to halt further progression.

Is periodontal disease contagious?

Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria in the teeth and gums and can be spread through saliva, so it’s technically possible to spread the bacteria to others through activities like sharing utensils or kissing. However, just because the bacteria are spread doesn’t mean the other person will develop gum disease. Many factors, including their oral health and immune response, will determine that.

What are the risk factors for periodontal disease?

Some people are more at risk for others for periodontal problems. Risk factors for periodontal issues include poor oral hygiene, smoking or chewing tobacco, genetics, crooked teeth that are hard to keep clean, pregnancy, diabetes, medications that cause dry mouth, and certain diseases and their treatments can also pose a risk. To keep your gums and teeth healthy, always follow oral care guidelines given to you by our gum specialist team!

What’s the best way to prevent periodontal disease?

The most effective way to prevent gum disease is by maintaining good oral hygiene to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste, and use dental floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that are beyond the reach of your toothbrush. It’s also beneficial to rinse your mouth with water after meals to help remove any leftover food debris, or utilize an antibacterial mouthwash after you brush your teeth.

Another important way to prevent the need for gum disease treatment is to treat your smile with orthodontic services, which help to keep your teeth and jaw aligned properly. A misaligned mouth makes removing plaque and tartar from the tooth root surfaces more difficult, which is why gum disease, bone loss, and other consequences can develop if you neglect to correctly align them.

We also highly recommend that patients eat a healthy diet and reduce or quit smoking altogether. Eating healthy helps your body produce tissue-stimulating proteins, accelerating the healing process. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of developing gum disease and improve the success rate of tissue regeneration.